S-waveplate is a super-structured waveplate which converts
linear polarization to radial or azimuthal polarization. Radial
polarization enables focusing laser beam into a smaller spot
size. Radial and azimuth polarizations allow achieving the same
machining properties in all directions. It is also applicable in
optical tweezers and microscopy.
Primary applications for such radial polarizers are in laser
machining, microscopy and optical tweezers as well as Raman
spectroscopy systems. Unique features of this converter are
that it is made in the volume of monolithic fused silica (UVFS)
window, therefore resistant against high power laser radiation;
AR coatings might be applied; and a single element is used both
for polarization conversion to radial/azimuthal and generation of
optical vortices.

Clear Aperture, mm

Wavelength, nm

Transmission (uncoated)

Ordering code

2

488 ± 15

>40%

14WPS-40-488-2

515 ± 20

>45%

14WPS-45-515-2

632 ± 20

>50%

14WPS-50-632-2

800 ± 25

>55%

14WPS-55-800-2

1030 ± 35

>65%

14WPS-65-1030-2

1550 ± 40

>75%

14WPS-75-1550-2

4

515 ± 20

>45%

14WPS-45-515-4

632 ± 20

>50%

14WPS-50-632-4

800 ± 25

>55%

14WPS-55-800-4

1030 ± 35

>65%

14WPS-65-1030-4

1550 ± 40

>75%

14WPS-75-1550-4

6

488 ± 15

>40%

14WPS-40-488-6

515 ± 20

>45%

14WPS-45-515-6

632 ± 20

>50%

14WPS-50-632-6

800 ± 25

>55%

14WPS-55-800-6

1030 ± 35

>65%

14WPS-65-1030-6

1550 ± 40

>75%

14WPS-75-1550-6

8

800 ± 25

>55%

14WPS-55-800-8

1030 ± 35

>65%

14WPS-65-1030-8

Benefits for laser micro-machining
• Helps achieving smaller spot size
• Ensures the same machining properties in all directions*
• Complex trajectories are made featuring the same track width**
• Ensures the same cutting speed in all directions
• Increases cutting speed

* When processing materials with linearly polarized light, features are bigger
in width, when machining is performed in the direction perpendicular to
polarization of the beam and vice versa.
** This is useful for example in fabrication of microfluidics, whereas later
chemical etching retains the same characteristics through all the channel.